This coastal region of Italy has the beauty and historic appeal of Tuscany but without the prices or the crowds

The photo shows the village Apricale which is built on a hillside in Liguria, Italy, June 2008. The region Liguria is situated in the north-west of Italy and is, like Tuscany, one of the most popular holiday destinations of German tourists. The opportunity of taking long walks in the mountains as well as the Mediterranean Sea with its numerous small bays and beaches attract many viAlamy
Whenever we drive across the border from the French Riviera there is always a loud whoop from the kids at the sight of Ventimiglia. If you have ever been here you might think that my family is a rather poor judge of landscape as a wide, rather scruffy valley greets you on entering the small and mountainous region of Liguria in Italy.

What my family know, though, is that moments from Ventimiglia are lush, steep mountain valleys with homely hilltop villages, stunning sea views and babbling brooks hidden in the hinterland. A fabulous dinner awaits and there’s no tourist fatigue. The Inglese are very much welcome.